Online Master Degree in Accounting Programs

Earning an online master degree in accounting offers opportunity to advance your career in a variety of finance and accounting related fields.

A masters degree in accounting is a concentration in the masters degree in business administration (MBA) field, and if you've got a background in accounting or business and finance and want to move up within your company or transition into a new role, an online graduate degree in accounting can help you achieve your goals.

Who should earn a masters degree in accounting?

Most masters in accounting degree programs require you to have an either a bachelor degree in accounting or a related degree program. You are also a good candidate for an online graduate degree in accounting if you've been working in an accounting-related profession and want to advance your career. Unlike other masters degree programs, you need the general background in accounting upon which to build the more advanced knowledge or specialization in accounting.

Professionals who are considering a masters degree in accounting program should be problem solvers and have analytical minds. The ability to understand and evaluate financial data is key to most careers in this field. Because accounting MBA degrees typically lead to management-level roles, candidates should be good communicators.

Choosing a Master Degree in Accounting

Different online colleges and universities offer different concentrations and program focuses in accounting; masters degree in accounting and finance, accounting and financial management, professional accounting, government accounting masters degrees and other accounting-related specializations.

Professional accounting MBA degree programs, for example, may cover courses in management and cost accounting, corporate taxation and business law. Government accounting, on the other hand, includes courses in public sector auditing, capital budgeting and principals of local government law. When selecting an online master degree in accounting program, ensure the coursework and material covered aligns with your career goals.

Licensing and Certification for Accounting Careers

Accounting professionals who earn a masters degree in accounting and want to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) must become licensed with the state. In most states, practicing accountants who meet specific criteria relative to experience and education apply for certification with the state Board of Accountancy. This is in addition to undergoing continuing education and periodically renewing your license to practice as a CPA.

You may choose to become a Chartered Financial Analyst, Certified Management Accountant or other officially recognized accounting professional. Each of these professional accounting designations has its own licensing or certification procedure. Know your career goals before you select a masters in accounting program to ensure that the program covers the skills and knowledge you need for any professional licensure or certification.

Career Options

A masters in accounting degree opens the door to mid-level and senior-level management and accounting positions. You can choose to work within the public or private sector, for a profit or non-profit organization or for the government. Depending on the degree focus, you can advance your career or start a career as an accountant, auditor, tax examiner, financial analyst, accounting supervisor, or vice president of accounting.